We want to scale and realize I need to step out of the running-the-business seat, but we cannot afford a full-time, high-caliber Integrator right now. Can we put a fractional Integrator in this seat, and how does that affect accountability and reporting on our chart?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use a fractional Integrator, and it is a highly effective way to bridge the gap as you scale toward an exit. However, you must be disciplined about how this seat is structured on your Accountability Chart.

A fractional Integrator must still fully own the Integrator seat. They cannot just be an advisor or a consultant who sits on the sidelines. They must lead, manage, and hold your department heads accountable. This means your department heads report directly to this fractional Integrator on the chart, and the fractional Integrator reports directly to you, the Visionary.

To make this work, the fractional Integrator must GWC the seat. They must have the capacity to run your Level 10 Meetings, resolve conflicts, and keep your Rocks on track during their contracted hours. Your leadership team must treat them with the same respect and authority as a full-time executive.

Using a fractional resource is an excellent way to clean up your operations and prepare for a transition. It shows potential buyers that your business has operational structure and does not depend solely on you to run the daily engine. Just ensure that as the business grows, you have a clear plan to transition this seat to a full-time leader when the budget allows.